Demonstration planned to be held in Kabul on July 3; anticipate traffic disruptions and increased security

Event

A demonstration has been planned for 09:00
(local time) on Monday, July 3, in Kabul in relation to political grievances with the
government. The demonstration is expected to take the form of a vehicle
parade starting around 09:00 to 10:00 in Khurasan Circle, and
lasting until around 12:00, ending at Pashtunistan Square. The following
locations have been circulated as potential stopping points during the
parade: Khurasan Circle; Shaheed Circle; Airport Circle; Masoud Circle;
Clock Tower; Pashtunistan Square; Dehbori Circle; Kart-e Parwan Circle. Other
reports have suggested that Darulaman road could also be affected.
Roadblocks and closures should be expected. Depending on the size and the duration of the protest, transportation delays can be expected throughout the city.

Context

The month of June saw large protests with heavy congestion
as the result of numerous roadblocks and the closure of several roads. The protests - a reaction to a large car bomb explosion on May 31 - started in early June, during which Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) opened fire on the crowd to prevent entrance to the
Presidential Palace, killing numerous civilians. This led to further
demonstrations lasting until late June with protesters occupying Zanbaq
square. The protesters were eventually forcibly dispersed, leading to more civilian casualties.

Advice

Individuals
are advised to monitor the situation and be aware of potential delays to
travel.

As always, due to major security concerns, individuals throughout
Afghanistan are urged to keep a safe distance from large gatherings, military
convoys, government buildings, and crowded urban areas. Many Western
governments advise their citizens against travel to the country due to the high
threat of kidnapping and terrorism, including frequent attacks against Afghan
National Defense and Security Forces, local civilians and politicians, and
individuals working in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields. Travel to
the country should only be undertaken with proper security protocols in place.